10 Best Electric Guitars For Small Hands
If you’ve ever felt that the vast expanse of a guitar fretboard resembles a wide-open desert for your dainty digits, I’ve got news for you. Being blessed with smaller hands doesn’t mean you can’t lay down some killer riffs or serenade with sweet melodies.
There are electric guitars out there designed with you in mind! Let’s zap any misconceptions and tune into the best electric guitar options for those with more compact hand real estate.
Grasping Neck Widths & Profiles.
Alright, before we get into the guitars, let’s chat about what makes a guitar comfortable for smaller hands. A big part of this comes down to two key things: neck width and neck profile.
Neck Width: Simply put, it’s how wide the neck is, especially at the nut. A narrower neck width often feels better for those with smaller hands as it requires less stretching between fingers.
Neck Profiles: This is about the contour or shape of the neck’s back. You’ve got the ‘C’, ‘U’, ‘V’, and D shapes, but for smaller hands, a slimmer ‘C’ profile often feels just right.
Here’s a lineup of electric guitars that sync perfectly with smaller hands, ensuring you get the most out of every note:
1. Fender Mustang
A classic that’s been around since the ’60s. Fender Mustangs have a short 24-inch scale length, making it easier to reach for notes. Plus, the slim “C” shaped neck profile feels snug for smaller hands. Before purchasing a used Mustang, be sure to check its authenticity by the serial number.
2. Gibson SG Special
While Gibson is often associated with chunkier necks (looking at you, Les Paul!), the SG Special is a delightful exception. Its slim taper neck profile is friendly for smaller hands, and that double-horned body? Super light and comfy!
3. Ibanez S Series
For those who want to shred with ease, the Ibanez S Series is a game-changer. Known for their ultra-thin necks and lightweight bodies, these guitars are incredibly accommodating for those who find bulkier guitars a challenge.
4. PRS SE Custom 24
Another gem from Paul Reed Smith! This guitar, while versatile in sound, offers a thin neck profile that’s perfect for quicker navigation. Also, the 24 frets? They make soloing high up the neck a breeze.
5. Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster
Who says you need to break the bank for a great guitar? The Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Strat has a comfortable “C” shaped neck and a shorter scale, capturing the iconic Stratocaster vibe in a more hand-friendly package.
6. Daisy Rock Candy Classic
The Scoop: Daisy Rock guitars are designed specifically for female players, and the Candy Classic is no exception. It boasts a slimmer neck and lightweight body, all while not compromising on tone.
Why It’s A Catch: Its unique design isn’t just eye-catching. The slim & narrow neck makes complex chord structures and lead parts more accessible for smaller hands.
7. Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V
The Scoop: Yamaha’s Pacifica series has always been known for quality at an accessible price point. The PAC112V, with its comfortable neck and contoured body, is an excellent option for the petite-handed player.
Why It’s A Catch: Its smooth neck, combined with a balanced and light body, ensures that playing for extended periods doesn’t become a strain.
8. Jackson Dinky
The Scoop: If metal is your genre of choice, look no further. The Jackson Dinky, with its shorter scale length and slim neck profile, is designed for speed and agility.
Why It’s A Catch: Besides being a metal machine, its compound-radius fingerboard allows for comfortable chording at the lower frets and shredding lead work higher up the neck.
9. Schecter S-II CUSTOM STCB
This Schecter S-II CUSTOM STCB is a rad electric guitar that’s got a vibe of both old-school and modern coolness. If you’ve got smaller hands and find other guitars a bit of a stretch, this one could be a game-changer for you. Here’s the lowdown:
- Body Style: It’s got this sleek single cutaway design, which means reaching those high notes is a breeze. Plus, it looks super slick.
- Neck: The neck is on the slimmer side, making it super comfy to grip and play, especially if your hands aren’t that big. It’s usually made of maple or something similar, so it’s sturdy but still feels smooth.
- Sound: Packed with high-output pickups, likely humbuckers, this baby can handle anything from rocking out to mellow blues. The sound is clear, rich, and versatile.
- Hardware: It comes with solid tuners and a stable bridge, keeping everything in tune no matter how hard you jam.
- Looks: The STCB finish? Probably stands for some cool color or style that Schecter does. It’s definitely a looker with top-notch craftsmanship.
So, if you’re after a guitar that’s easy to handle, sounds awesome, and looks the part, the Schecter S-II CUSTOM STCB could be your perfect match. It’s all about getting that killer sound without the hand gymnastics.
10. ESP LTD EC-1000
The Scoop: The EC-1000 series from ESP LTD is not only visually striking but also ergonomically designed. With a thin “U” shaped neck, it’s built for both rhythm and lead players.
Why It’s A Catch: Apart from its sleek looks, the set neck allows for easier access to higher frets, ensuring that even those with the smallest of hands can solo with ease.
Pro Tips:
- Try Before You Buy: Seriously, folks. What looks good on paper might not always vibe with your hand. Give it a test drive!
- Adjust The Action: A lower action (distance between the strings and the fretboard) can make playing easier. Just watch out for any buzzing.
- String Gauge Matters: Lighter strings can be easier to press down and bend, so consider switching them up if needed.
- Stretch It Out: No, not the guitar, your hands! Regular hand stretching can help improve flexibility and reach.
Final Thoughts.
Okay, here’s the final scoop: having smaller hands is no barrier in the electric guitar realm. The right guitar can feel like an extension of yourself, making every slide, bend, and chord feel effortless. Remember, it’s not about adapting to the guitar; it’s about finding a guitar that adapts to you.
While this list should give you plenty of options to explore, always remember that every player is unique. It’s all about personal comfort, playability, and the sound that speaks to you. Whether you’re strumming chords or tearing through a blistering solo, the right guitar will amplify not only your sound but also your confidence.